Storms boost river levels; some near flood stage

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Some Midwestern rivers that were near record lows are now on the verge of flooding after storms dumped up to 3 inches of rain, giving a boost to drought-ravaged waterways.

Storms Tuesday and Wednesday caused scattered damage in parts of the Midwest and South. But they also brought badly-needed rain. The St. Louis area got up to 2 inches of rain and rainfall amounts in southern Missouri and southern Illinois were closer to 3 inches.

The National Weather Service on Wednesday predicted minor flooding at some smaller rivers in Missouri, Illinois and Indiana. Hydrologist Mark Fuchs said it is unlikely any significant flood damage will occur.

Meanwhile, the middle Mississippi River that was approaching record low levels is expected to rise several feet.